I started watching NFL football in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Back then, it was a different game. Not better or worse than the current product--just different. It was a time where sheer toughness could (and often would) win out over talent. The 2000 Baltimore Ravens defense was the shining star of that philosophy, making them worthy of 30 For 30 examination.
Ostensibly, "Bullies of Baltimore" tags along on the 20th reunion celebration of that Super Bowl-winning team. Figures such as Brian Billick, Marvin Lewis, Ray Lewis, Trent Dilfer, Tony Siragusa, Shannon Sharpe, Rod Woodson, and Jamal Lewis are on hand to give their recollections of that extraordinary campaign. From there, directors Ken Rodgers & Jason Weber intersperse that event with sit-down interviews and archival footage to round out the story.
On the field, Rodgers & Weber focus on how gritty and hard-hitting the defense was--truly a once-in-a-lifetime coming together of talent and philosophy. But it also had to be--because the offense went an entire month without scoring a touchdown at one point! It was only when Billick switched to a ground-heavy attack with Jamal Lewis and replaced Tony Banks with Trent Dilfer that the whole team really became dangerous and made their postseason run.
Behind the scenes, it was both nostalgic and interesting to see such figures as Siragusa & Sharpe in their natural element, while also witnessing the simmering intensity of Ray Lewis and the contemplative acceptance of Dilfer. At times, Billick is the star of this whole production, as his unique personality--then and now--is entertaining to behold.
Overall, I really enjoyed this look back at the '00 Ravens. From a modern perspective, it is almost impossible to imagine a squad hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in that manner, but that only makes it more impressive to see it play out!
